Donate Blood or Platelets in Honor of Memorial Day

Download this entry as a DOC file.

MADISON, Wis. (May 20, 2008) – Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. This Memorial Day holiday weekend, the American Red Cross asks that you give blood or platelets in honor of those who have served our country.

Many Americans gave blood for the first time when the American Red Cross initiated the first national blood program during World War II. War has prompted several other innovations, including the creation of a national blood donor program, mobile blood collection units, and the development of a method for drying plasma for distribution where and when it was most urgently needed.

“Blood is a perishable product that needs to be constantly replenished,” said Tony Procaccio, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days and platelets just 5 days. We rely on our blood donors to donate regularly to meet the needs of patients – there simply is no substitute for blood.”

Blood and platelet donations can drop during the Memorial Day weekend when many donors are vacationing, however, the need for blood doesn’t take a vacation. The need for blood is constant. That is why it is so important that generous blood and platelet donors donate regularly.

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be at least 17 years old, 16 years old with a signed parent/guardian consent form in Wisconsin, and must weigh at least 110 pounds.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.

###

« back to newsroom